Salivary Glands
Humans have 3 pairs of major salivary glands that secrete saliva into the oral cavity via dedicated ducts. There are more than 500 additional minor salivary glands that are located directly under the lining of the mouth. Saliva acts as a mouth lubricant, aids in the digestion of carbohydrates, provides a solution for tasting food, has an antibacterial effect, and protects teeth from decay. The body produces more than 1.5 liters of saliva daily. Most salivary gland tumours arise in the parotid glands, the largest of the salivary glands located in front of the ears. The facial nerve that controls the facial movements (lifting the eyebrows, closing the eye, and smiling) runs within the parotid gland and is rarly affected by the gland tumors.
Facts about salivary glands:
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The majority of salivary gland tumours are benign.
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Parotid gland tumour excision, in expert hands, is relatively safe a low risk of facial nerve injury.
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Using specific surgical techniques the rate of postoperative facial paralysis can be below 1%.
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small parotid tumors can be excised through a face lift incision with most of the incision hidden behind the ear.